On Christmas Day 2019, Christmas was found wandering the HCR neighborhood with his mom and her friends. Concerned neighbors jumped into action, corralling the small herd and working with authorities to locate their owners. When none came forward, Ed and Laura Hoppe (pronounced “hope”) gave the newly nicknamed Chris his forever home. It’s what they do best, providing refuge for those who need a place to belong.
At first, Chris was so lonely the Hoppes asked a neighbor to loan them one of their cows. Today Chris and Fancy are inseparable. Besides cattle, the Hoppes have taken in an ark-full of farm animals needing new homes for one reason or another: chickens, roosters, donkeys, mini donkeys, goats, alpacas and mini horses. Beloved Anatolian-Pyrenees, Maverick and Slider, watch over them. Each animal has a name, a story and receives the care afforded any family member. Visitors who meet the animals are introduced to each one and given the opportunity to feed, pet and share a dose of unconditional love.
Not only are animals the recipient of the Hoppes’ generous nature, the Hoppes are licensed to babysit foster chil dren on the farm. It is a welcome respite for foster parents and for kids from the daily stressors of life. The camaraderie of Ed and Laura and donkey, Chipper, as well as a nuzzle from the dogs, a cluck from one of the hens, and a whinny from the mini horses, can make a child’s eyes shine. The chance to see people living a merciful, compassionate life is an unintended lesson.
Ed and Laura Hoppe, both Rhode Island natives, were sweethearts in high school and col lege, but went their separate ways, marrying others and raising families. Ed spent many of those years restoring an 1800s farmhouse and Laura pursued a Masters in Industrial-Organizational Psychology. Fate brought them to Austin and in 2017, and they bought the 14-acre Mt. Hoppe farm. Besides running the farm, Ed and Laura also work at day jobs. Ed is an electrical engineer and Laura an executive coach.
In no time, their dream took shape, and today their tidy, wellkept farm, a 501(c)3, is busy helping people make lifelong memories. Grownups seem to enjoy the experience as much as the children do, considering the remarks on social media. The farm accepts donations to help feed and care for the animals and welcomes volunteers who want to learn about animals and farm life. Visits are currently being offered through the Wimberley Civic Club on March 26 as part of their Spring Events, benefiting high school seniors pursuing higher education and local nonprofits. Tickets are $12 and children under 2 are free. For more information go to wimberleyccc.org. For more information about Mt. Hoppe farm, go to mthoppefarm.org.
